We speak to one of Asia’s most accomplished women about her success in the luxury lifestyle and hospitality business 

Whether you’re sipping on a cocktail comfortably nestled on the terrace of Sevva admiring the unrivalled panoramic views of the city, or indulging in a slice of crunch cake at C’est La B in Pacific Place – chances are you’ve come across one of Bonnae Gokson’s creations.

Gokson is a creative force to be reckoned with an extensive career in the field of luxury fashion, lifestyle, and hospitality, she is also the founder, owner, and creative force behind Sevva, Ms. B’s Cakery, and C’est La B. We speak to Gokson about her successes to date and why the key to her success has been in following her heart: 


Hong Kong has always been home. It has given me immense opportunities and wonderful experiences both professionally and personally.  It’s unique and efficient, everything just gets done faster here.

If I had to summarise my businesses in three words it would be: lifestyle, hospitality, and cakes!

It’s hard to list my proudest accomplishment as I feel there are so many, from the numerous accolades I received when I started in homewards and luxury fashion for my sister Joyce Ma’s former fashion empire, which then followed with building up Joyce Café. I also helped to rejuvenate the brand image for one of the most recognised French fashion maison’s today.

I was recognised as one of the Top 100 Outstanding Women in China by the China Association of Women Entrepreneurs. Last year marked the first time an author won 3 top international awards for my coffee table book, Butterflies & All Things Sweet. It’s been quite a ride, I’m proud that Sevva and Ms. B’s Cakery, and C’est La B has reached levels of success I couldn’t have dreamed of and have been internationally recognised as all my ideas come from the heart, and I’m pleased to see that it’s won the hearts of many over the years. 

My advice for budding entrepreneurs is to embrace what makes you different, success is tied to passion. You’ll find that passion is your greatest ally – never be afraid to challenge what society tells us we can achieve, be persistent and consistent.

My end goal is to be recognised internationally and perhaps to expand my business throughout China, ideally I would consult on the creative aspect of my business. The dream is to have a small chain of boutique hotels – but I still want to be able to have time to myself, a girl can dream right?

Looking back, I think life offers unexpected turning points and it's been quite an extraordinary and exciting journey for me.  Perhaps I would have wished to have more photos documenting my work and projects as plenty of them were truly quite impressive but there simply wasn’t enough time! 

My biggest inspiration is my sister, Joyce Ma, she inspires me in every aspect of life, her grace, curiousity, knowledge, flair, and integrity.

The best aspect of running your own business is the freedom of being creative, from designing interiors to packaging, to staff uniforms, and to creating wonderful desserts, especially cakes! 

Five years from now, it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly where I want to be. I just believe in taking life one day at a time, savour each moment while it lasts.

My words to live by are quite simple really: “Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life. Enjoy the simple pleasures and keep positive company around you. However you do....live it gracefully!”


Photography by Chen Man
Hair by Kim Robinson